As Milwaukee gears up for its 2026 budget process, Common Council members are actively seeking more public engagement. Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, who chairs the Finance and Personnel Committee, and Alderman Peter Burgelis, the committee's Vice-Chair, are at the forefront, urging citizens to jump in and contribute their thoughts and concerns. The official starting gun fires next week, with Mayor Cavalier Johnson set to present his recommendations to the Common Council on September 23, according to the City of Milwaukee.
Speaking of the vital role the community plays during these proceedings, Alderwoman Dimitrijevic said, "As chair of the Finance and Personnel Committee, I have increased the opportunities for the most important voices to be heard – yours.," as stated by the City of Milwaukee. Wrapped in this commitment, there are two primary meetings slated for residents to chime in on the budget conversation. Attending the meetings, residents can directly influence the city's fiscal roadmap.
Mark your calendars: the first rendezvous for public commentary is the Joint Public Hearing on the Mayor's proposed 2026 budget, scheduled for Monday, October 6 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting's location is set at the Common Council Chamber at City Hall, located at 200 E. Wells St., as detailed by the City of Milwaukee.
For those who prefer the comfort of digital communication or cannot attend in person, the Common Council introduces an innovative Finance and Personnel Committee Public Input Meeting on October 18 at 9:30 a.m. Set in the community-rich MLK Library at 2901 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., this meeting not only allows in-person input but also accommodates virtual participants – provided they register in advance. With a stash of children's resources and activities at the library, families are encouraged to engage in the budget process together, as per the City of Milwaukee.
